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Pelosi Statement on the Expiration of Unemployment Insurance for Millions of Americans

Dec 27, 2013

Press Release

Contact: Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

San Francisco – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement on the expiration of emergency unemployment compensation for 1.3 million Americans, which falls tomorrow:

“Starting tomorrow, too many American families will face the New Year with uncertainty, insecurity, and instability as a result of congressional Republicans’ refusal to extend critical unemployment insurance. For 1.3 million Americans, this means less money to support their families, less to spend in their communities, and an even greater struggle to make ends meet. This is the last gift any Member of Congress should deliver to the American people as we head into 2014.

“Neglecting to extend this vital lifeline to millions of workers is simply immoral – an abdication of our obligation to do what we can to support those who worked hard, played by the rules, and lost their jobs through no fault of their own. What’s more, unemployment insurance remains one of the most effective ways to quickly and immediately boost our economy and inject demand into our markets. Indeed, every dollar invested in this initiative yields $1.52 in economic growth, and an extension of UI could produce as many as 300,000 jobs.

“For the Americans affected by this Republican inaction, there’s no time to waste. The first item on Congress’ agenda in the New Year must be an extension of unemployment insurance. That must be our priority on day one – as Democrats continue to advance an agenda focused on job creation, a stronger middle class, and responsible deficit reduction.”